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Brazil bans Worldcoin from giving crypto for eye scans

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The Brazilian government has officially banned the Worldcoin project, citing concerns over privacy and data protection related to its biometric eye-scanning technology. The project, spearheaded by OpenAI’s Sam Altman, aimed to incentivize users with cryptocurrency in exchange for their unique iris scans to create a “proof of personhood.” However, Brazil’s Ministry of Justice and Public Security raised red flags, questioning the project’s compliance with data protection laws and the risks of misuse of sensitive biometric information.

Worldcoin’s rollout in Brazil had sparked widespread debate, as it targeted individuals in developing nations with promises of financial inclusion through digital identity. Critics argued that the initiative exploited vulnerable populations and failed to provide clear guarantees on data security. Privacy advocates also warned of potential surveillance and the centralization of sensitive data in the hands of a single entity, which contradicts the ethos of decentralization in blockchain technology.

Brazil’s decision follows similar scrutiny from regulators worldwide, including in Europe and Africa, where concerns over ethical data collection practices and potential violations of GDPR and local privacy laws have been raised. Worldcoin representatives have yet to respond directly to the ban, but they have previously asserted that the project complies with applicable regulations and adheres to stringent data protection standards.

The ban in Brazil underscores the increasing regulatory challenges faced by emerging blockchain projects, particularly those involving biometric data. As governments ramp up oversight to ensure consumer protection and ethical practices, projects like Worldcoin will need to demonstrate greater transparency and accountability. This decision also highlights the global demand for balancing innovation with privacy, a key issue as blockchain technology continues to evolve.

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7-Eleven South Korea to accept CBDC payments in national pilot program

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7-Eleven is set to participate in the testing phase of a central bank digital currency (CBDC) initiative, running from April to June. The retail giant’s involvement highlights the growing push for digital currency integration in everyday transactions.

The pilot program will assess the feasibility of CBDC payments at 7-Eleven stores, allowing customers to make purchases using the digital currency. The initiative is part of a broader effort to explore the real-world application of CBDCs in retail environments, potentially shaping future payment systems.

As central banks worldwide accelerate their digital currency research, private sector collaboration is seen as crucial for widespread adoption. If successful, 7-Eleven’s participation could pave the way for broader CBDC usage across retail and commercial sectors.

The outcome of the testing phase will provide valuable insights into consumer adoption, transaction efficiency, and potential regulatory considerations, influencing how CBDCs are integrated into mainstream financial systems.

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SEC and Gemini ask to pause lawsuit to explore ‘potential resolution’

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The U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and crypto exchange Gemini have agreed to pause legal proceedings as both sides explore a potential resolution to their ongoing lawsuit. The move signals a possible settlement in the high-profile case, which centers around Gemini’s now-defunct Earn program.

The SEC initially sued Gemini, alleging that the Earn program—designed to offer users yield on crypto deposits—operated as an unregistered securities offering. Gemini has pushed back against the claims, arguing that its operations complied with regulatory standards.

By pausing litigation, both parties may be looking for a compromise that could set a precedent for crypto lending products in the U.S. A settlement could also provide regulatory clarity for similar platforms navigating SEC scrutiny.

While the outcome remains uncertain, the crypto industry is closely watching the case, as its resolution could impact future enforcement actions and the broader regulatory approach toward digital asset lending services.

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GameStop finishes $1.5B raise to add Bitcoin to its balance sheet

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GameStop has successfully completed a debt offering, raising capital that may be used to acquire Bitcoin, signaling the company’s deeper foray into digital assets. The move aligns with its broader strategy to diversify beyond traditional retail operations and into emerging financial technologies.

While GameStop has not confirmed the exact allocation of the funds, market speculation suggests that a portion could be used to buy Bitcoin, following in the footsteps of companies like MicroStrategy. The potential investment would reinforce GameStop’s ongoing pivot toward blockchain and digital assets, an effort that began with its NFT marketplace and crypto-related initiatives.

Analysts see this development as part of a growing trend of corporations exploring Bitcoin as a reserve asset amid concerns over inflation and monetary policy. If GameStop proceeds with the acquisition, it could further validate Bitcoin’s role as a strategic investment for publicly traded companies.

The company’s board will ultimately decide how the newly raised capital is deployed. Investors and the broader crypto market are watching closely for any official announcements regarding GameStop’s Bitcoin strategy.

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